Stable Yemen imperative for peace: Fatemi

ISLAMABAD - Special Assistant to Prime Minister on Foreign Affairs Syed Tariq Fatemi yesterday emphasised that a stable and peaceful Yemen was imperative for regional and international peace.

He was talking to newly appointed Ambassador of Yemen to Pakistan Muhammad Motahar Ali-Shabi here.

According to a statement issued by the Foreign Ministry, Tariq Fatemi stressed that Pakistan was deeply concerned at the continuing bloodshed and deteriorating security situation in Yemen and believed that there was a dire need to ensure that the country did not get further destabilised by terrorist groups.

He said that Pakistan strongly condemned actions by the Houthis to overthrow the legitimate government in Yemen led by President Hadi and reiterated the fact that Houthis should return to the negotiating table for amicable settlement of all disputes.

Ambassador Motahar conveyed his government’s appreciation for Pakistan’s support and ,added, that Pakistan and Yemen enjoy close and fraternal relations.

He expressed confidence that Pakistan-Yemen relations would continue to follow a positive trajectory and stressed that he was looking forward to working closely with Pakistan to this end.

He also briefed the Special Assistant to the PM on developments taking place in Yemen. Other issues of regional and international importance also came up under discussion during the meeting.